Saskatchewan introduces amendments to permit alcohol consumption in outdoor public places

Consuming alcohol in outdoor public places could soon be legal in Saskatchewan’s municipalities and parks.

The government of Saskatchewan presented amendments on Monday that would give municipalities and park authorities the choice to allow the consumption of liquor in outdoor public places for individuals of legal drinking age.

The introduced amendments would allow officials to make their own decisions about designating outdoor public places where alcohol can be consumed by individuals.

Municipalities and park authorities would also have the authority to balance local interest and public safety concerns, the government said in a media release on Monday.

“Through these amendments, municipalities have the option to allow the consumption of alcohol in their parks, ensuring that residents are able to enjoy their parks in a safe and responsible way,” Minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) Jim Reiter stated in the release.

Reiter added that, while he understands there may be concerns about safety, he thinks the bill can benefit those whose access to leisure space is limited.

“There are people in apartments or condos who don’t have easy access to their own green space,” he said.

“Those of us who have a backyard and want to have a BBQ and a beer and a glass of wine are certainly free to do that but not everybody has that opportunity.”

In regards to private events, including weddings, where alcohol is being served or sold, people still need to acquire a permit from the SLGA.

Reiter said his government’s goal is to pass the bill before legislators break for the summer.

With just three days left in the spring sitting, though, the government will need unanimous support from the chamber to skip debate and committee review and pass the bill before before session wraps Thursday.

The opposition expressed more than a little hesitation to that idea when speaking to reporters Monday afternoon.

Opposition Deputy Leader Nicole Sarauer said that, while her party isn’t completely opposed to the idea, she thinks a bill such as this one should go through its normal process to allow time for the opposition to consult with local municipalities, other jurisdictions which may have implemented a similar amendment or legislation, and ask questions of the bill.

“The government knows how legislation works, how the legislative process works in this building. If they wanted it passed for this summer they could’ve introduced it anytime earlier than when they did, which is the last week of session,” she said.

“We’re not supportive of consent without consultation.”